Unveiling the Dark Side: The Case of the Disgraced Vicar

Welcome to the HJ Talks About Abuse podcast, brought to you by the abuse team at Hugh James. In this episode, Alan Collins, the head of the abuse team, along with his colleagues Kathleen Hallisey and Hannah Hodgson, delve into the unsettling case of Reverend Julian Wheeler, a former Church of England clergyman recently convicted of sexually abusing two altar boys.

We discuss the legal concept of vicarious liability and its implications for organisations in cases of abuse. This episode highlights how the misuse of power by individuals in positions of authority, such as priests, can lead to severe consequences for victims. We also explore the broader issues faced by survivors, including the impact of mandatory reporting and the complex dynamics within faith communities that can hinder justice.

Join us as we examine the importance of safeguarding, the challenges of mandatory reporting, and the profound need for support and empowerment for survivors of clergy abuse. We hope this discussion not only informs but also encourages those affected to come forward and seek help.

Thank you for listening to this episode of HJ Talks About Abuse. You can subscribe to our podcast on iTunes, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. If you'd like to speak to us about something you've heard today, we'd love to hear from you.